The New York Giants are ushering in a new era at quarterback, as rookie Jaxson Dart is set to take over as QB1. According to multiple reports, Dart will replace veteran Russell Wilson in Week 4 when the Giants face the Los Angeles Chargers.
The move signals a major turning point for the franchise as they hand the reins to a first-year player.
Can Rookie Jaxson Dart Spark the Giants’ Offense?
Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden reacted to the news with just three words: “Here we go!” His brief but telling statement summed up the sense of anticipation around Dart’s debut and the boldness of the Giants’ decision.
Here we go! pic.twitter.com/8JtKdY5HVs https://t.co/ymR36DVWve
— Jon Gruden (@BarstoolGruden) September 23, 2025
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Giants are planning to start Dart this Sunday against the Chargers. The move sends Wilson to the bench after only three games as the starter. For many Giants fans, the announcement represents both excitement and uncertainty, as the team places its faith in a rookie quarterback earlier than expected.
Dart, the team’s first-round selection with the No. 25 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was expected to get playing time at some point this season. However, his strong preseason, where he threw three touchdowns with no interceptions, accelerated the timeline and convinced coaches he was ready for the role.
How Did Jaxson Dart’s Journey Lead Him to the NFL?
Before arriving in New York, Dart built a decorated college resume. He began his career at USC before transferring to Ole Miss, where he became one of the SEC’s most consistent passers. Over four years, Dart appeared in 45 games, steadily developing into a pro-ready talent.
A QB change: Giants are planning to start rookie Jaxson Dart on Sunday vs. the Chargers, sources told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/PwYApMCoN7
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 23, 2025
His senior year at Ole Miss cemented his first-round status. Dart led the SEC with 4,279 passing yards and a 69.3 completion percentage. He tossed 29 touchdowns against only six interceptions while adding nearly 500 rushing yards and three more scores on the ground. Those numbers made him one of the most efficient quarterbacks in college football and a can’t-miss prospect in the draft.
Why Was Russell Wilson Benched After Just Three Starts?
For Russell Wilson, the change represents a setback in what was supposed to be a fresh start. After a disappointing role at Denver, Wilson signed with the Giants, hoping to revitalize his career. But through three weeks, his play didn’t meet expectations. By turning to Dart so quickly, the Giants have made it clear they view him as the present, not just the future.
When the Giants face the Chargers in Week 4, all eyes will be on Jaxson Dart’s first NFL start. His debut marks the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise, one filled with both potential and pressure. As Jon Gruden put it best: “Here we go!”
